Pin HSN Code

Understanding the “Pin” HSN Code

The humble “pin” might seem like a simple item, but in the world of HSN codes and GST, it’s far from it! The term “pin” encompasses a vast array of products, from fasteners to stationery, and even electrical components. For businesses in India, understanding the correct Harmonized System of Nomenclature (HSN) code for a “pin” is vital for accurate Goods and Services Tax (GST) compliance. The HSN code, and consequently the GST rate, depends heavily on the pin’s material, design, and intended use. This blog will help you decipher the diverse classifications of “pins” and their associated GST implications.

The “Pin” Classifications by Material and Function

The HSN system categorizes goods with remarkable detail, and “pins” are no exception. Their classification primarily depends on what they are made of and their specific function.

• Iron or Steel Pins (Fasteners and Sewing/Safety Pins): A significant number of “pins” fall under HSN Chapter 73, which covers “Articles of iron or steel.” This chapter addresses various fasteners and utility pins.
  • Cotter-Pins and Similar Articles (Threaded/Non-threaded): These are commonly used as fasteners in machinery and construction.
    • “Screws, Bolts, Nuts, Coach-Screws, Screw Hooks, Rivets, Cotters, Cotter-Pins, Washers (Including Spring Washers) And Similar Articles, Of Iron Or Steel – Threaded Articles” are broadly covered under HSN 7318. Specific examples include “Coach Screws: Other” (73181190) and “Other Threaded Articles” (73181900).
    • All these threaded articles, including cotter-pins, attract an 18% GST rate, effective from July 1, 2017.
  • Safety Pins and Other Utility Pins (Non-Fasteners): These are the everyday pins used for various purposes.
    • “Safety Pins And Other Pins, Of Iron Or Steel, Not Elsewhere Specified Or Included” are covered under HSN 7319.
    • Specifically, “Safety Pings And Other Pings” are found under HSN 731940.
    • These typically attract an 18% GST rate, effective from July 1, 2017.
  • Drawing Pins, Nails, Tacks: These are also common iron or steel “pins.”
    • “Nails, Tacks, Drawing Pins, Corrugated Nails, Staples… And Similar Articles, Of Iron Or Steel” are broadly under HSN 7317. A specific sub-code is 73170029.
    • These items also carry an 18% GST rate, effective from July 1, 2017.
• Pins of Other Base Metals (e.g., Copper, Office Pins): “Pins” made of base metals other than iron or steel, or those used as office articles, have their own classifications.
  • Copper Pins (Fasteners):
    • “Nails, Tacks, Drawing Pins, Staples… And Similar Articles, Of Copper Or Of Iron Or Steel With Heads Of Copper; Screws, Bolts, Nuts, Screw Hooks, Rivets, Cotters, Cotterpins, Washers… And Similar” are found under HSN 74152100 (within Chapter 74: Copper and articles thereof).
    • These attract an 18% GST rate, effective from July 1, 2017.
  • Office Pins:
    • “Fittings For Loose-Leaf Binders Or Files, Letter Clips, Letter Corners, Paper Clips, Indexing Tags And Similar Office Articles, Of Base Metal; Staples In Strips… – Other, Including Parts: Pins” are classified under HSN 83059010 (within Chapter 83: Miscellaneous articles of base metal).
    • These office pins also have an 18% GST rate, effective from November 15, 2017.
• Electrical Insulators (Pin Insulators): In the electrical field, “pin insulators” are critical components.
  • “Electrical Insulators Of Any Material – Of Ceramics – Porcelain Pin Insulators” are categorized under HSN 8546 (within Chapter 85: Electrical machinery and equipment and parts thereof).
  • Specific sub-codes like 85462039 (Above 66 Kv) and 85462032 (6.6 Kv or Above But Up To 11 Kv) exist.
  • These porcelain pin insulators carry an 18% GST rate, effective from July 1, 2017.
• “Pine” Related Products (Homophones, Not Actual Pins): It’s important to distinguish the word “pin” from “pine” in the data, which refers to a type of wood or fruit.
  • “Pine (Pinus Spp.)” wood is under HSN 44071020 (18% GST).
  • “Pineapples” are under HSN 08043000 (12% GST) or 20082000 (12% GST for prepared).
  • “Pine Oil” is under HSN 38052000 (18% GST).
  • “Pepper Pinheads” are under HSN 09041160 (5% GST). These are not “pins” in the typical sense, but rather a specific part of pepper.

The Importance of Precise HSN Classification

• Accurate GST Calculation: Using the correct HSN code ensures that businesses apply the right GST rate, preventing under or overpayment of taxes and avoiding penalties.
• Seamless Trade: HSN codes provide a globally recognized standard for product classification, simplifying domestic and international trade processes for various “pins.”
• Efficient Business Operations: Proper HSN classification leads to streamlined inventory management, accurate invoicing, and hassle-free tax filing, improving overall business efficiency.